Trauma-Informed Practices

The Delaware Department of Education (DDOE) is committed to empowering every student to be successful in college, career and life. This success requires both academic and behavioral supports to assure that all students and school communities are protected, connected and respected.

Developmental trauma and toxic stress hurt a person’s ability to form trust-based relationships, regulate and manage emotions, and develop age-appropriate problem-solving and coping skills. To support students, educators and families through trauma and toxic stress, DDOE works with districts and charter schools as well as youth-serving partners to create a statewide culture of care that promotes safe and supportive relationships, fosters healing and recovery for post-traumatic growth and moves from surviving to thriving. Central to this culture is a strong focus on brain science, attachment theory, and assessment and intervention strategies that support emotional regulation, self-care and resilience.

Additional Resources

• Educator training, resources – Current educator training opportunities and resources for social, emotional and behavioral well-being. Document is continually updated.
• Strategies for whole-child wellness – DDOE’s strategic plan for social, emotional and behavioral health across the state. Includes current strategic intents.
• Seven pillars of trauma-informed care – Provides more information on what Delaware schools are doing to support students.
• Capacity-building progression for trauma-informed schools - Maps the progression from trauma aware to trauma informed. Informs DDOE's trauma-related training strategies.
• Executive Order 24 – Makes Delaware a trauma-informed state. Signed by Governor Carney on Oct. 17, 2018.
• Public Meeting Calendar – Find upcoming meeting dates, agendas and past meeting minutes for all public Delaware trauma-informed and SEL meetings.